Airport, Academics Good Fit

November 23, 1993|By teal

For years, bright students from minority communities have had a tough time getting jobs in fields such as architecture or engineering. Now, however, the Orlando International Airport will serve as a link with business and academia to help minority students earn college credit while on the job.

What a great idea!

Starting in December, the architectural firm of Spillis Candela & Partners will hire five college interns to work on the Orlando airport's expansion project.

The students - who must excel in architecture, engineering or computer sciences - will be picked from the University of Central Florida, Florida A&M University and the University of Florida.

Not only will they be getting paid and learning the skills they will need to get a job once out of college, but their universities also will be giving the students college credit for their on-the-job learning experience.

It's especially heartening that Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Chairman Jeff Fuqua wants to look at other possibilities for such internships as the airport continues to grow and prosper.

Such private-public ventures can only benefit the Orlando area and its diverse residents.